Learn the Continental Style of Knitting

 Most knitters of the community learn to knit in a style taught be the mentor. The continental style of knitting means holding the yarn in the left hand while working the stitches. Many knitters learn the strings of the craft with English style and then adopt the continental style. Even if you know to knit in one style, it is worth learning the other.

The continental style of knitting can be worked with any knitting needle (single-pointed, double-pointed, fixed circular or interchangeable circulars.) The needles are held like regular needles but the yarn is tensioned in the left hand (index finger). In the English method, the working yarn is held in the right hand. But no matter which hand holds the thread to make stitches, you still use both hands when you knit.

In this blog, we will discuss the continental style of knitting.

What is the Continental Style of Knitting?

The Continental style of knitting hails from Europe and is sometimes called German knitting. It is also known as "left-handed knitting". The yarn is held in the left hand while it is picked or scooped by the knitting needle tip and therefore also goes by the name of picking.

The knitting style is not dependent on the project or the stitch pattern. It is simply the way the yarn is held in the left hand. For your project knitted in the round, you can choose circular knitting needles, double-pointed needles, or ones according to the project. Cast on the number of stitches on any knitting needle you prefer. You can go ahead with any single pointed needle or circulars if you are knitting back and forth.

Now, let’s discuss the basic set up for Continental Knitting

Hold the Yarn in your Left Hand 

Now hold the needles like you usually do. You just have to keep the yarn in place at the back of the work with your left hand and the knitting needle with the cast-on stitches.

There are several ways to hold the yarn, so experiment with different methods to find what's most comfortable. The technique may seem awkward to move the thread using just your index finger, so use your middle finger and other fingers. This tensioning will get easier with practice.

The Knit Stitch

The knit stitch in continental style means inserting the right-hand needle down on the back of the loop and grabbing the yarn in your left hand index finger.

Slide the stitch off the left-hand needle and you’ll see the knit stitch form on the right-hand needle.

You can continue this for a row or round.

The Purl Stitch

Bring the working yarn to the front of your project.

Insert your right needle into the front of the first stitch on the left needle from right to left.

Wrap the working yarn coming from below around the needle.

This movement must be counterclockwise if you see the needle as a clock.

Pull the yarn through the stitch.

Slip the stitch you worked to the left needle to finish the purl stitch.

If you are a beginner knitter, you can get all details in the previous blog on a purl stitch.

It is worth learning the Continental Style of knitting and other methods or trying one of the lesser-known styles. For one thing, you can alternate stitches for a different hand-and-wrist action on the same project, reducing hand and arm strain if that's a problem. Being able to knit both methods also comes in handy when you're working with two colors of yarn in the same row. You can knit with one color in your right hand and one in your left, then speed through the process without hassle. Plus, it's fun to learn more techniques and have them in your arsenal, even if you typically knit one way most of the time.

As always, happy stitching!

5 Easy Ideas to Knit and Crochet Father’s Day Gifts

 Father’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate fathers, grandfathers, uncles, friends and many lovely men. For the special day, the best gift deserves to be special. It deserves to be something made with love with your own hands. If you are knitter proficient with knitting needles or a lifelong crocheter hooked on crochet hooks, then the most obvious gift is easy and quick yet very special for you. All you need is yarn and a pattern to put your skills to use for a unique gift.

Even if you are a beginner, it is never too early to start. You can work with your single pointed needles or other tools you’ve learnt to knit with. A pair of circular knitting needles tackle all kinds of projects whether you knit back and forth or in the round. You can work with knit and purl stitches that assist with the garter or Stockinette stitch pattern. In this blog, we’ll take a look at gift ideas that can be knitted or crocheted

1.       Phone or Tablet Sleeve

A sleeve or pouch to protect your dad's phone or tablet is an ideal gift. Use a durable yarn and a stitch pattern that provides padding. Add a button or a zipper closure for extra security. You can also incorporate a pocket for earphones or other small accessories.

You can knit the gift with any pair of knitting needles that you own. Take measurements with a tape measure first and a few inches more for ease. Make a basic rectangle or square according to your requirement. Seam the ends with a wool needle. You can add special motifs or a heart either with a contrasting shade of yarn with duplicate stitches or work on a basic colourwork knitting.

You can also go ahead with crochet. Simply make a square or rectangle and then shape it up with crocheting techniques. Here too you can work with multiple yarns or try out colourwork.

2.       Cozy Slippers

Warm cozy slippers are the perfect gift. Use a thick, warm yarn to keep your dad's feet warm and comfortable. With knitting you can add some fun details like a ribbed cuff or contrasting colours to personalize them for your dad. You can use a pair of STNs or circular needles for the project.

Crocheting can work beautifully too. In fact, the fabric will stick to its shape and design. Start with a thick wool for the base and then work with taller stitches.

3.       Tie

Make a stylish and unique yarn tie for your dad. Choose a soft yarn in his favorite color and use a pattern that creates a sleek and sophisticated look. He'll appreciate the handmade touch and can wear it on special occasions or even to the office.

This too can be worked with knitting or crocheting. You can knit a flat piece with any of your regular knitting needles or even work with a crochet hook. Insert your father’s favorite motifs or colours to make a masterpiece.

4.       Coffee Cozy

If your dad is a coffee lover, knit or crochet him a coffee cozy. Choose a yarn in his favorite colors or go with a neutral tone. Add a fun pattern or stitch detail to make it stand out. It will keep his hands cool while enjoying his favourite cup of joe. Even if you dad is a wine lover, you can modify the cozy to accommodate his preferred bottle.

5.       Watch Strap

If your dad wears a watch, knit him a stylish watch strap. Choose a soft and flexible yarn that will be comfortable on his wrist. Experiment with different stitch patterns and colors to create a unique design that matches his style.

Remember to personalize each gift by adding small details or using your dad's favorite colors. Handmade gifts are always special and show your thoughtfulness and creativity. With KnitPro, explore knitting needles, crochet hook and accessories for all your crafting needs.